Bentley’s new Azure range boasts science-based wellbeing behind the wheel

Bentley has unveiled the new Azure range which the company said will become a permanent offering across the full Bentley model lineup which includes the Bentayga, Bentayga EWB, Flying Spur, Continental GT, and Continental GT Convertible. According to the British luxury car brand, the new Azure range prioritizes comfort and wellbeing, thanks to a curated selection of features that will make every journey a relaxing experience regardless of distance. And all of it — is backed by science.

“The Azure, like Speed and Mulliner, offers our customers clarity during the enjoyable process of choosing their ideal Bentleys. We know from the scientific research undertaken by our specialists that increased agency comes through choice, and we have taken a holistic approach to wellbeing behind the wheel, uniting technology, design, and craftsmanship to deliver driver and passengers to their destination more relaxed than when they set off,” said Bentley CEO and Chairman Adrian Hallmark.

One of the most important features of the Azure range is its seats which are, according to the Crewe-based brand, “the foundation for driving comfort and control.”

The seats on all Azure models have 22-way adjustment features allowing passengers to find their ideal seating position. Additionally, the seats come with heating and ventilation functions to help maintain one’s optimum body temperature for comfort and alertness.

Azure seats also feature a massage function with six programmable settings. Furthermore, Azure models can be optioned with the Front Seat Comfort specification which adds adjustable side bolsters, electric seatbelt adjustment, and comfort headrests.

These features are rooted in findings that a person takes up to 30 percent less oxygen when he or she slumps. As a result, it places additional stress on one’s body and reduces one’s ability to think.

The Azure range also offers superior NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) levels.

Research that tracked thousands of people over a four-year period found that those exposed to traffic noise over 70 decibels (dB) were 65 percent more at risk of depression. On that note, the Azure variant of the Bentayga EWB boasts better NVH levels than its competitors — by between four and 26 percent, depending on frequency and position inside the car.

In terms of vibration, the Azure model of the Bentayga EWB has up to 27 percent lower secondary ride vibration than its competitors.

“We have to understand how we all detect and respond to sounds and then work out how to engineer those sounds into the components that make a Bentley. We balance the sound from the vehicle and cocoon the occupants from outside world by minimizing sound penetration. We harmonize the acoustics with the other sensory inputs in the vehicle. The sound is literally in the vehicle’s DNA; it’s authentic and crafted,” said Bentley Acoustics Engineer Andy Jackson.

Bentley’s new Azure line also takes into consideration the passenger’s visual wellbeing with a cabin that promotes an eye-pleasing interplay of light and shade. The Azure interior design specification includes a “wellness quilting” which boasts fractal patterns of precisely crafted diamond-quilted upholstery. The passengers’ sensory experience is also considered as Azure models can be specified with a choice of three open-pore wood veneers — Dark Walnut, Crown-Cut Walnut, and Koa — that are as good to the touch as they are calming to the eyes.

“To create the Azure range, we consulted with neuroscientists to understand the interrelationship of color, texture, tactility, and even scent to create an atmosphere of relaxed serenity. When we see pleasing forms, shapes, and colors our brains release chemicals such as dopamine that not only make us feel good but are good for our body and sense of wellbeing. Sensory receptors convert physical stimuli in neural activity, creating changes in our brain and nervous system. Every fabric, sound, motion, color, and touch continuously impacts our nervous system and the Azure cabin has been finessed accordingly,” said Bentley Motors Head of Color & Trim Maria Mulder.

All of the abovementioned features are anchored on Bentley’s Science-Informed Design. The marque has consulted creative neuroscientist Katherine Templar-Lewis, from Kinda Studios. Templar-Lewis’ research, paired with Bentley’s own measurements allowed them to give science-based analysis to the relaxing experience of traveling in a Bentley, as a driver or a passenger.

Photos from Bentley

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